The Formula 1 stars are facing a new challenge at the upcoming Monaco Grand Prix, where a significant rule change has been introduced. For this year’s event, all teams and drivers will be required to make a minimum of two pit stops during the race. This change aims to add an element of unpredictability to the event, as the Monaco GP has become somewhat predictable in recent years, with the outcome often being determined during qualifying.
The narrow streets of Monaco already make it a challenging track, and the mandatory two-stop rule will only add to the complexity. Furthermore, the FIA has reduced the pit lane speed limit to 60km/h, down from the usual 80km/h, in an effort to prioritize safety. This change will require drivers to be extremely cautious during pit stops, as exceeding the speed limit could result in penalties.
Drivers will need to rely on their pit limiter, an electronic system that limits the car’s speed when entering the pit lane. However, this system requires driver activation, and any mistakes could lead to fines. In the past, drivers have been penalized for speeding in the pit lane, with fines ranging from €100 to €1,000.
The Monaco Grand Prix is set to take place from May 23 to 25, with practice sessions, qualification, and the main race scheduled to thrill the crowd of 37,000 spectators. Teams like Ferrari, Mercedes AMG Motorsport, and Racing Bulls will be vying for top spots, with drivers like Andrea Kimi Antonelli and George Russell from Mercedes, and Liam Lawson and Isack Hadjar from Racing Bulls, looking to make their mark.
The combination of the challenging track, mandatory pit stops, and reduced pit lane speed limit will undoubtedly make this year’s Monaco Grand Prix an exciting and unpredictable event. Drivers will need to balance speed with strategy and caution to succeed in this demanding race.
